Considering to buy Japanese tea sets? Find out what are some of the crucial elements to look for to ensure you buy the best set available.
Tea drinking is spread globally and has a tradition that can be traced back to the most ancient civilizations. As such, this habit has probably found its way to your home.
Whether you have already been consuming tea habitually or have just started to acquire this delectable taste, having a traditional japanese tea set in your home can be considered an asset.
You may want to consider loading up on information when buying a new tea set.
After all, tea sets tend to find their niche at the kitchen cupboard making them a great conversational and display piece aside from quenching your need for that aromatic and relaxing drink.
Japanese tea sets sit on top of the list of tea sets when it comes to functionality, aesthetics, and availability. What are the things to look out for when buying a Japanese tea set?
Components of a Japanese tea set
Whether you want to expand your tea set collection or start a new one, being able to identify the best antique japanese tea set markings as well as the basic parts of a tea set comes in handy.
This would be your reference to know if the set you want is complete. Also, you don’t want to end up with an incomplete tea set that would not serve its purpose.
The teapot: brewing and serving piece
The teapot is the largest component of a basic Japanese tea set. This is the piece where the tea is brewed and served from. Thus, its design is usually based on the function it serves. You may identify the types of Japanese teapots at first glance by looking at their shapes.
The Ushirode Kyusu is the Japanese adaptation of the Chinese teapot. It has a handle attached to its back portion. It is a versatile teapot that can be used for any type of tea.
However, Chinese and English tea varieties usually brew in these types of pots. Its traditional shape gives it a classic look that can also give an accent to your kitchen cupboard or dining table.
The Dobin teapot is unique due to the handle attached at the top. Usually, its handle is made from a different material to protect its user from heat. These pots are generally larger, and buyers that intend to serve 4-6 people may want to consider it.
Meanwhile, the unique Hōhin teapot stands out because it does not have any handles. It is customized for brewing tea at lower temperatures, such as green tea.
Thus, users can hold the teapot in their hands without getting burned. Having this in your collection signifies that you have a wider tea selection and makes for an interesting conversation piece.
Lastly, the Yokode Kyusu is a side-handled teapot that does not lack uniqueness as well. The handle is placed on the side to add functionality as its user may prevent the cover from falling off by pressing their thumb. Its aesthetics make it an attractive piece to anyone’s collection.
Choosing your teacups
Generally, Japanese tea cups are classified according to the material they are made from. Teacups come in the clay, porcelain, or glass variety.
Clay tea cups are super popular in Japan. It offers a classic look due to its heat-exposed surface. Buyers that aim for the traditional motif would want to look into this teacup.
Also, porcelain teacups are just as popular in Japanese homes. They are considerably lighter and petite in design. They are also easier to clean because of their non-absorptive quality.
Meanwhile, glass tea cups are great for serving iced tea for refreshments. They also come in a wider variety of shapes and colors. However, its heat tolerance may be something to look into closely.
Functional accessories
The best Japanese tea sets also include accessories to make your teatime more enjoyable. It will also make your set more versatile and accommodate more types of tea.
Tea filters are an essential part of your collection so that you can enjoy the crisp taste of the brew. They are usually made from clay, porcelain, or metal. Clay and porcelain are considered as the better choices for taste retention while metal filters are the more affordable ones.
Japanese tea sets are quite widespread globally. It comes naturally because tea is the second most-consumed liquid in the world, next only to water. There are a variety of colors and shapes to choose from when selecting your Japanese tea set.
You may also want to consider the size of where you want to store them and the general motif of your kitchen before buying your tea set. Nonetheless, purchasing a Japanese tea set is a definite boost to your home. You may check out this guide for an overview on Japanese tea cups.